Di San Xian (Potato, Eggplant and Pepper Stir-Fry)
A beloved northern Chinese home dish featuring crispy fried potatoes, tender eggplant, and sweet green peppers all tossed in a rich savory garlic sauce. Simple ingredients come together into something deeply satisfying and full of comfort.
⏱ 30 minServes 4Chinese
Ingredients
- •1 medium eggplant (about 400g), cut into 1-inch chunks
- •2 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- •1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- •1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
- •4 garlic cloves, minced
- •2 tbsp soy sauce
- •1 tbsp oyster sauce
- •1 tsp dark soy sauce
- •1 tsp sugar
- •1 tsp cornstarch
- •3 tbsp water
- •1 tsp sesame oil
- •to taste salt
Directions
- 1Sprinkle the eggplant chunks with 1/2 tsp salt, toss, and let sit for 10 minutes to draw out moisture, then pat dry with paper towels.
- 2In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, oyster sauce, dark soy sauce, sugar, cornstarch, and water to make the sauce; set aside.
- 3Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the potato chunks in batches for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- 4In the same oil, fry the eggplant chunks for 3–4 minutes until golden and soft. Remove and drain on paper towels.
- 5Carefully pour off most of the oil, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the wok.
- 6Over medium-high heat, add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 7Add the green pepper and stir-fry for 1 minute until slightly softened.
- 8Return the potatoes and eggplant to the wok, pour the sauce over everything, and toss quickly to coat all pieces evenly, about 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens and clings.
- 9Drizzle with sesame oil, give a final toss, and serve immediately over steamed rice.
💡 Dark soy sauce adds color and depth — if unavailable, use an extra teaspoon of regular soy sauce. Oyster sauce can be swapped for hoisin sauce for a slightly sweeter flavor. For a fully vegan version, use a plant-based oyster sauce (available at most Asian grocery stores or online). Do not skip salting the eggplant — it prevents it from absorbing too much oil during frying.
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